New R-SCAN website supports radiologists transitioning to value-based payment models
The new Radiology Support, Communication and Alignment Network (R-SCAN) website supports radiologists as they make the transition to value-based payment models. R-SCAN was developed by the American College of Radiology (ACR) and funded by the CMS Transforming Clinical Practices Initiative.
“R-SCAN assists radiologists in demonstrating the value they bring to patient care, a major focus of Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act’s (MACRA’s) value-based payment structures, which will significantly impact how radiologists are paid,” Max Wintermark, MD, professor of radiology and chief of neuroradiology at Stanford University and R-SCAN clinical adviser, said in a statement. “Reimbursement is increasingly directly linked to providing concrete data that demonstrate the radiologist’s role in delivering better patient care at lower costs.”
Radiologists who signed up for R-SCAN are presented with a step-by-step guide on how to improve the ordering of exams, and a free, customized version of the ACR’s ACR Select clinical decision support tool is also made available. By signing up for R-SCAN and using the website, participants are also able to work toward earning Maintenance of Certification Part 4 credit.
“R-SCAN participation provides an enormous opportunity for radiologists, working with referring health care professionals, to lead medicine in making significant change that positively impacts patients and promotes cost-efficient care,” William T. Thorwarth Jr., MD, ACR CEO, said in the statement. “This program aligns with the ACR Imaging 3.0™ initiative in which radiologists help referring providers select the best imaging exam, help patients avoid unwarranted testing, reduce errors and improve quality and safety.”
Registration is presently open for an introductory webinar on Dec. 16 at 3 p.m. ET. The free webinar will focus on the benefits of R-SCAN participation, the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act (MACRA), the Protecting Access to Medicare Act (PAMA), and the entire R-SCAN process.
Visit the R-SCAN website for additional information.
Michael has more than 18 years of experience as a professional writer and editor. He has written at length about cardiology, radiology, artificial intelligence and other key healthcare topics.